NBA Rumors: Toronto Raptors pull off shock move for Jakob Poeltl
With the NBA trade deadline approaching, the Toronto Raptors could have a last-minute shake-up. Adrian Wojnarowski recently reported that the Raptors are acquiring Jakob Poeltl from the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs will receive Khem Birch, a protected 2024 first-round draft pick, and a couple of future second-round picks.
Bringing Jakob Poeltl into the team will definitely improve the Toronto Raptors' depth. Khem Birch, the player Toronto plans on letting go, has only played 20 games this season and could be considered an inactive bench player. Acquiring Poeltl is a smart decision on the Raptors' end as they'll be receiving a player who can actively contribute going forward.
The Toronto Raptors are acquiring San Antonio Spurs center Jakob Poeltl for Khem Birch, a protected 2024 first-round draft pick and two future second-round picks, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/9Iz7KFCd20
Jakob Poeltl is currently averaging 12.1 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.1 assists while shooting an efficient 61.6% from the field. The Spurs big man is dominant inside the paint and could complement Pascal Siakam.
Shocking last-minute NBA trades that could change the landscape of the league
The NBA world is buzzing right now as many shocking trades have taken place in the span of just a few days. Kyrie Irving was sent to the Dallas Mavericks, Russell Westbrook was traded to the Utah Jazz, and now Kevin Durant has joined forces with the Phoenix Suns.
Just a few days ago, the Brooklyn Nets were considered title contenders. Now, with both Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving out of the picture, Brooklyn might not even get past the first round of the playoffs, let alone make it. With KD now in Phoenix and Irving in Dallas, the Western Conference is once again stacked with superstars.
With that in mind, teams like the LA Lakers, who're desperate to make the playoffs, might not even have a chance any longer.
While this may come as bad news for teams that are already struggling to clinch a playoff spot, the teams who acquired these superstars now have a better chance of winning.
Who knows? Chris Paul might finally win a ring now that Durant is by his side. Luka Doncic could further cement his status as one of the greatest Mavericks players in history with the help of Irving.